Thomaston business owner arrested on prostitution promotion

KENNEBUNK, Maine (NEWS CENTER) - Police say a well-known insurance agent from Thomaston was involved with the business of a prostitute in Kennebunk - and that's why he was arrested on Tuesday.

State Police and Kennebunk Police searched the home and business of Mark Strong,Sr. in Thomaston. They arrested Strong and charged him with promoting prostitution, a Class D crime. Kennebunk police say the charges relate to activity that was first reported last year at the Pura Vita Zumba studio on York Street, and later at another location across the street.

A police affidavit filed with the court states that Strong had a close business and personal connection to a woman named Alexis, also referred to as Lydia, who investigators state owned the studio and was engaged in prostitution.

They say Strong has "significant business and personal connections to the illegal activity". The accusations, according to police, are based on computer records, bank records and telephone records. So far the woman has not been charged with a crime, but investigators say there may be more charges coming, and more people charged. Strong was released on bail Tuesday, and is currently scheduled for a court appearance in September.